This year 32 Americans were chosen as Rhodes scholars along with 95 others from rest of the world. These scholars were chosen from 18 jurisdictions around the world. These scholars will pursue post-graduate studies at Oxford University. The Americans were selected from 882 applicants who were endorsed by 311 colleges and universities.
The first batch of American Rhodes Scholars to enter Oxford was in 1904.The scholarship covers all expenses for two or three years of study when the class commences in October 2017.These scholarships are worth $68,000 per year. The Rhodes Trust provides the Rhodes Scholarships in partnership with Second Century Founder, John McCall MacBain and other generous benefactors. A Rhodes scholarship includes University and college fees, a personal stipend and one economy class airfare to Oxford at the start of the Scholarship, as well as an economy flight back to the student’s home country at the conclusion of the scholarship.
The trust focuses on four criteria during the selection process.
Candidates with literary and scholastic attainments, with the energy to use one’s talent to the full. They should showcase truth, courage, devotion, sympathy, kindliness, unselfishness and fellowship. They should have a moral force of character and instincts to lead.
In short, they are looking for Global leaders of the Future.
The Rhodes scholars will join just over 20,000 students from more than 140 countries currently studying at the University. They will be enriched by the stimulating and rigorous education and the vibrant cultural and community life. Many Rhodes Scholars have gone on to serve at various government, research, commerce, arts, education and other sectors.
Some of the Honorable mentions of this year’s list include-
Jory M. Fleming of Columbia, South Carolina, a double-major pursuer of geography and marine science, has worked on funded research projects for NOAA, the National Park Service and National Geographic. He plans to pursue a master of philosophy degree in geography and the environment.
Nancy Ko, a senior at Harvard University, proficient in both Hebrew and Arabic, plans to become a professor of Jewish history. She plans to do her graduate work in modern Middle Eastern studies.
Oscar De Los Santos, one of the top 20 graduates from the University of Southern California, plans to pursue masters in public policy and theology, with a focus on Christian Ethics.
Joshua Pickar, Of Lexington, Massachusetts, a graduate from George Washington University with a double major in international affairs and security policy, plans a career in international law and policymaking. Being a polyglot has only helped him in his endeavors. He is now in his final year at the University of Chicago Law School.
Hannah Carrese, a graduate from Yale University, looks for a solution for mass refugees and certain policy changes to deal with mass influx of immigrants and refugees.
